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Layne Staley

Personal Life and Struggles

Staley was long engaged to Demri Lara Parrott, a fellow Seattle native and artist. The two shared a close and influential relationship, although both struggled with substance abuse. Parrott died of a drug overdose in 1996, a loss that profoundly affected Staley and reportedly exacerbated his own addiction issues.

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Despite his musical success, Staley’s life was increasingly marked by reclusiveness and battles with heroin addiction. These challenges limited his public appearances and participation in recording and touring with Alice in Chains during the late 1990s.

Death and Legacy

On April 19, 2002, Layne Staley was found deceased in his Seattle apartment. An autopsy confirmed that he had died from a mixture of heroin and cocaine—commonly referred to as a "speedball." His death occurred roughly two weeks before his body was discovered, highlighting the depths of his isolation during his final years.

Despite his tragic end, Staley remains remembered as a key figure in the grunge movement, renowned for his powerful voice and emotive songwriting. His work with Alice in Chains continues to influence musicians across genres, underscoring the lasting impact of his contributions to rock music.

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Quick Facts
Birth Date: 22 Aug, 1967
Age: 52 yrs
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Kirkland
Gender: Male
Description: American rock singer, songwriter
Net Worth 2021: 5 million
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Last Modified: Dec 6 2025
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